Google Docs

Google has simple, online apps that make it easy to create word processing (Google Docs), spreadsheets (Google Sheets) and presentations (Google Slides). You can sign in and access your documents from most any web browser or computer in the world. You don’t need any special software.

Google Docs are easy to share with others. Instead of a static attachment, they open a live document. You can allow them to make changes or just suggestions. Multiple people can edit a document at the same time, so it’s perfect for collaborating. No need to connect to a server; no “read-only” or “file busy” errors. If someone makes edits while you’re viewing the doc, you’ll see the changes– almost in real time.

Google Docs live completely online – they cannot be downloaded to a computer. They use their own formats but can be converted to PDF, Word, Excel, PowerPoint (and from there, Pages, Numbers & Keynote). You can also import Microsoft Office files. Some things may change during conversion, so it’s best to consider your options before you begin.

Our advice: when you need to create a heavily-formatted document (multiple fonts, text wrapping around photos, complex spreadsheets or presentations), you’re better off with Microsoft Office or Apple apps. But for simple docs that several people need to edit, Google Docs can be better than passing around attachments.